Don’t forget to be kind to yourself

Eating nourishing foods is one of the most basic ways you can demonstrate self-care.

Look at life/environmental situations, which may be draining you. It may be a particular person who leaves you feeling worse for coming into contact with him/her, the hours you work, a situation at home, even a noisy polluted street you walk along. Do an audit and take steps to make positive changes.

Move regularly – it doesn’t have to be strenuous. Walking, stretching, gentle breathing, yoga or swimming are all great choices.

Notice something each day that you are grateful for or plan something that will bring you pleasure each day. This may be as simple as reading your favourite book, watching your children sleep or moving your body regularly.

Go out without your phone – it sounds silly but many of us are on ‘‘call’’ literally every waking second. It can be so liberating to detach for a little while, allowing yourself the space to not be easily contactable. It may also highlight just how often you use your phone out of habit.

Minimise screen time – many people wake up by reading the news on their cellphone, continuing looking at it while they commute, only to spend all day looking at a computer screen. When they return from work they then switch on the TV or watch something on their laptop! Not only is too much screen time disruptive for sleep it’s not good for your sense of wellbeing either.

Immerse yourself in mother nature, studies show that we feel more calm when we are surrounded by nature. Being kind to yourself often means accepting your own vulnerabilities and understanding that you are human and you will make mistakes, you will evolve and that every opportunity no matter how difficult it may feel at the time offers you the opportunity to grow.

Dr Libby will be speaking across the country during October. Visit drlibby.com to buy tickets.